A strong Catholic presence is felt in San Bernardino as the region deals with the deadliest terrorist attack on American soil since 9/11

By John AndrewsEditor

As they gathered together on the morning of December 2nd for their Advent Day of Prayer at Our Lady of Guadalupe parish in San Bernardino, the mood among the priests and deacons of the Diocese was collegial and reflective.

The strong presence of the Catholic faith in Inland Southern California became sadly evident in the fact that half of the 14 victims in the Dec. 2 attack at the Inland Regional Center were connected to the Church.

Any tragic event brings forward feelings especially fear. Excessive fear can drain our energy and distort our perception of reality. By sharing our fears with someone, we are able to move through the difficulties of our lives. St Paul tells us that real hope comes from our belief that the Lord Jesus has died and risen from the dead (1 Thes 4:14). Gratitude is one of the best ways to deal with grief. Gratitude allows us to appreciate the good things connected to our love ones, other people around us and God.

Deacon Mark Martinez, a San Bernardino County deputy, relied on his faith to get himself and others through the Dec. 2 attack on the Inland Regional Center

By Natalie Romano

SAN BERNARDINO—On December 2nd, San Bernardino County Sergeant Mark Martinez had men in custody, suspects wanted in a carjacking from the previous night. Then came an urgent call, all units needed, an active shooter in San Bernardino. The alleged carjackers would have to wait.